Voting-machine.



No. 696,932. Patented Apr. 8, 1902.

A. J. BOLFING.

VOTING MACHINE.

Application filed Mar. 26, 1896.) 7 Shnts$heat l.

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Patented Apr. 8, A. J. BOLFING.

VOTING MACHINE.

(Application filed Mar. 26, 1896.)

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I i l No. 696,932. Patented Apr. 8, 1902.

A. J. BOLFING.

VOTING MACHINE.

(Application filed Mar. 28, 1896.)

(No Model.) 7 Sheets-Sheet 3.

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No. 696,932. Patented Apr. 8, I902.

A. J BOLFING. VOTING MACHINE.

(Applicgtion filed In. so, 1896.) (h 7 Shank-Shoal 4.

12 ZZ 22 22 o WITNESSES I 0R 696,932! Patented A r. I902. A. J. BOLFING.

VUTING MACHINE.

(Applicntion filed In. 26, 1 896.)

7 Sheath-Sheet 5.

(In Nodal.)

QM b M co'oea MKM fw 38, attain No. 696,932. Patented Apr..8, 1902.

A. J. BOLFING.

VOTING MACHINE.

(Application mu m. 26, 1898.) (lo Nodal.)

7 Sheets$hpot 6.

r Patented Apr. 3, I902. A. J.- BOLFING.

VOTING MACHINE.

(Application Med Int. 96, 1898.

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(Ila Modal.)

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE.

ARTHUR .I. BOLFING, OF SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA.

VOTING-MACHINE.

SPECIFICATION forming part of Letters Patent No. 696,932, dated April 8, 1902.

Application filed March 26,1896.

T0 coZZ whom it may concern.-

Be it known that I, ARTHUR J. BOLFING, a citizen of the United States, and aresident of the city and county of San Francisco, State of California, have invented certain new and useful Improvements in Voting-Machines, of which the following is a specification.

These improvements relate to suitably-protected means for mechanically accumulating on the counters of the respective candidates the votes given for each candidate whether or not said candidates are on the regularlist of any party, usually called a straight ticket, and similarly to the registry of what is termed a split ticket and also to a complete registry of the poll for all candidates.

The invention consists in various devices, as set forth in the accompanying drawings, in which Figure I represents in perspective a broken view of a polling-booth arranged to receive the improved voting and registering apparatus. Fig. II is an enlarged view in perspective of a portion of the voting and registering mechanism to the line m 00 in Fig. I. Fig. III is a section through the operating mechanism for voting substitute or scratch names, also in part the mechanism for voting regular or straight tickets. Fig. IV is a transverse section looking to the left on the line'g y in Fig. III, showing the operating elements before any votes have been registered by this mechanism. Fig. V is a similar section showing the same mechanism after one scratch or substitute vote has been registered by this mechanism. Fig. VI is a plan view in section of the mechanism shown in Fig. III with the covering-plates and some of the mechanism omitted. Fig. VII is a broken section corresponding in the main elements to Fig. III, but provided with the additional devices required when more than one and some predetermined number of candidates are to be voted for any given office. Fig. VIII is a front or end view of the mechanism shown in Fig. VII, taken at a right angle thereto. Fig. IX is a vertical section through one of the units or. elements containing the voting mechanism for complete or straight tickets. Fig. X is a side view of one of the links seen in edge view in the plan view, Fig. XI. Fig. XI is an edge VIOW of the mechanism shown Serial No. 585,025. (No model.)

in Fig. X. Fig. XII is a horizontal section on the line .2 .e' of Fig. IX. Fig. XIII is a broken section through Fig. IX on the line a a. Fig. XIV is an enlarged detail of the mechanism shown in Fig. I, showing the mechanism for readjustmentof the voting and registering mechanism as each voter enters the voting-booth. Fig. XV is an edge View of the mechanism shown in Fig. XIV. Fig. XVI is a view showing key 22 of Fig. IX depressed with its train of mechanism in a corresponding position. Figs. XVII, XVIII, and XIX are views showing details of Figs. IX, XII, and XVI. Fig. XX is an isometric view of some of the elements contained in the lower half of Fig. III, showing one of the bars 39 in an operated position as having been moved forward by the rod 18, key 22, and connecting accessories of Fig. XVI. Figs. XXI and XXII are views showing the means for cutting out connection between the individual-candidate mechanism and the straightticket mechanism. Fig. XXIII is an isometric illustration with portions of the casing and such of the parts broken away as to show as clearly as may be the relation of all the operating parts. Figs. XXIV to XXIX, inclusive, relate to multicandidate mechanism, also shown in Figs. VII and VIII, Fig. XXIV being an isometric view with casing and parts broken away to show means for re turning ratchet-wheel 49 to normal position. Fig. XXV shows means for raising pawls clear of ratchet-wheel 49 to permit its return to starting-point. Figs. XXVII and XXVIII are enlarged front and edge views of ratchetwheel 49, showing some of the details of the multicandidate mechanism. Fig. XXIX is an enlarged isometric view of adetail shown by dotted lines in Fig. XXIV.

Similar numerals of reference are employed to designate like parts in the several figures of the drawings.

The general object of this invention is to attain certain functions that will be pointed out at the end of this specification and in the claims appended thereto by certain mechanical means, the principal elements of which are a series of oscillating rods or shafts operated by depressible keys, these keys corresponding to the various contesting political parties, such keys actuating counters,

one for each candidate, also supplemental means for operating the same counters for substitute or scratch names or candidates, and at the same time cutting out or omitting the remainder of the counters for candidates for the same oflice, so that when an elector has thus voted for a particular candidate selected from some group or party the registering-counters for that candidate cannot be again operated when the elector subsequently votes for the party group of his preference.

To this end there is provided a votingbooth 1, as seen in Fig. I, along one side of the interior of which is arranged a plank 2, upon which the voting mechanism, to be hereinafter described, is fastened. To this booth 1 there are provided two doors, the entering-door 3, connected with the voting mechanism, and a door 4, by which the voters leave the booth 1. The voting and registering mechanism is disposed in units or elements 5, 6, 7, and 8 and as many additional as there are offices to be voted for, as seen in Fig. II, the width of each or the number of names and depressible keys'21 22 being made to conform to the requirements in elections to be held, the whole row or tier of these elements being traversed by actuating-rods 9,

10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, one of these rods 9 being,

as before explained, connected with the entering-door 3 in such a manner that when the door is opened to admit a voter the voting mas chinery is restored to original adj ustment, or the elements operated by the preceding voter are restored to their normal position and ready for new and independent voting and registry. If the space provided for these sections or units is not occupied, a covering 2 of the re-' 16 can be read, and over this I place a removwhile the voting proceeds.

At one side of the booth 1 there are swinging doors 19 20, the one, 19, opening down: ward to form a shelf or desk, on which notes from the counters 16 or the result of the poll can be made up, the upperdoor20 when raised or opened afiordinga full view ofpthe interior of the booth and the mechanism therein.

The function of the rod or shaft 9 is to unlock thedepressible keys 21 22-and the mechanism connected therewith, so they will re turn to their original position after an elector has voted. This rod 9 is operated by the door 3, which in openingis slid back into the chamopened or moved back, the end of the bar 27 engages a plate 28 on the edge of the door 3 and is carried back until the crank 26 has been moved the required distance. Then the angular portion 29 of the bar 27 reaches the bearing 30, causing the bar 27 to rise until disengaged from the plate 28. Then the spring 31 returns the crank 26 and the bar 27 to their original position, the stop 32 coming in contact with the bearing 30, as seen in Figs. XIV and XV.

The description this far has been confined to the views shown in Figs. I and II and the details thereof in Figs. XIV and XV or to the external operating elements involved in the application of this invention, and Iwill now'proceed to describe the registering mechanism contained in the elements 5, 6, 7, and Sin Fig. 11.

Referring now to Figs. III to VI, inclusive, Fig. III is a longitudinal section through one of the units or elements 5, 6, or 7, (seen in Fig. 11,) 21 being one of the voting-keys and 16 the counters. scribe because of the common decimal type and a well-known article of manufacture. These counters are operated. by. a pivoted member 33 in the form of a bell-crank, turning on the axis 34 and provided with a pawl 35, that engages a ratchet-wheel 36 on the first of thecounting-wheels 16'. Thisbellcrank 33 can be'operated in two waysby the hinged lever 37 and also by a pawl 38 on the sliding bar 39. These bars 39, of which These latter I do not dethere is one for eachof the keys 21, are operated by the rods 11, 12, 13, and 1450f a semicircular's'ecti'on, s'o arranged that when turned they will engage the lugs 40 on' the under sides of the .bars39 and push these,

bars forward, the pawl 38 engaging and turning the bell-crank33 and counting onev by the ratchet-wheel 36. The rod 10 has a different function to perform, as will be .ex-

plained in a future plaee. The number of the.

semicircular rods may be increased or diminished, as may be required by circumstances. The bell-crank33 after it has acted on the ratchet-wheel 36 is restored to its first position by the spring 56, and the bars 39 after IIO bars 39 as there are names or candidates and counters 16, and thelugs 40one on each bar39-are so set that all the bars registering for the candidates of one party will be operated by one of the semicircular rods 11, 12, 13, and 14. For example, suppose the rod 11 to be operated by the key 22 opposite the name Republican in'Fig. II, then the lugs on all the slides 39 operating the counters for Republican candidates will be set on the bars 39, so as to be engaged by the rod 11. So of the rod 12, all the bars 39 registering for Democratic candidates will be provided with lugs 40 to engage the rod 12, so the lugs 40 are staggered in position, one on each bar 39, set to engage one of the rods 11 12 13 14.

If a candidate has the oilicial indorsement or nomination of two or more of the contesting parties, there will be provided lugs 40, one for each party so nominating or indorsing, and placed in such position on bar 39, (operating the counter of said candidate,) so as to engage with the respective rods 11, 12, 13, or 14 corresponding with the parties giving such ofiicial indorsement or nomination.

The connection between the voting-keys 22 and the oscillating bars 11, 12, 13, and 14 will be explained subsequently in connection with Figs. IX to XII.

Adjacent to the individual-candidate keys are placed the names of the candidates. To facilitate and assist the elector in voting a split ticket to locate the keys of the candidates for whom he may desire to vote, respective voting-n umbers are placed adjacent said keys, thereby identifying said keys with said candidates. IVhere candidates have been oliicia-lly assigned voting-numbers, the placing of the candidate-names upon the machine may be dispensed with, the voting-numbers being in lieu thereof. Vith this arrangement it will readily be seen that rearrangement of said machines for subsequent elections will be greatly facilitated.

Continuing with Figs. III to VI, I willnow proceed to explain the means for voting a split ticket. It was pointed out that the bellcrank 33 was operated in two ways-by the sliding rods 39 and pawls 38 and also by the levers 37. The latter are pivoted at 34 and when moved downward by the tappets 41 on the keys 21 turn at the same time the bellcrank 33, operating the counters 16 the same as by the action of the sliding bars 39 and the rods 11, 12, 13, and 14. Then any of the levers 37 are depressed, they come in contact with and turn the hinged angular stop-bar 42, forcing it down upon the flexible pawls 38, thereby holding the ticket mechanism in that section out of engagement with said bell-cranks. Disks 47 are thrust laterally by the depression of the lever 37, thereby preventing the depression of another lever 47. Hence it will be seen that but one bell-crank in the section can be operated. These angular stop-bars 42 extend across the width of each of the sections or elements 5, 6, or 7 acting on all the pawls 3S and cutting out all the bars 39 in thatsection. IVhen the levers 37 are depressed, a pawl 43, operated by the springs 44, falls into the angular groove 45 in the rod 9, thus locking the levers 37 in their depressed position and holding the pawls 38 out of contact. The keys 21 when released.

by the voter are instantly raised by the coilsprings 46, that bear under the tappets 41, as seen in Fig. III.

In Figs. III to VI the mechanism is shown as arranged for one substituted or scratched vote in each group. This limit is imposed by the pendulous disks 47, hinged or pivoted between the slots 48, as seen in Figs. IV and V and hereinafter callec f wards. In Fig. IV these wards 47 are shown in their normal position, and in Fig. V they are shown in their position after one of the levers 37 is depressed and one vote given. In this latter position it will be seen the wards 47 are swung right and left by the depressed lever 37 closing or warding all the remaining slots 48, so that no other of the levers 37 or keys 21 can be depressed until the wards 47 are restored to their original position, as seen in Fig. IV. These wards 47 abut one against the other and move in combination to the right and left from any one of the levers 37 that is passed between them, as shown in Figs. IV and V and also in Fig. XIII. \Vhen the substituted or scratched votes, if any, are given, the elector then passes on to the keys 22, that operate the counters for groups of candidates forming the straight tickets of the respective parties. This mechanism is illustrated in Figs. IX, X, XI, and XII, which will be subsequently referred to and explained. As, however, in some cases more than one candidate is to be voted for in an office, provision is made for this in the manner indicated in Figs. VII, VIII, and XXIV to XXIX, inclusive. In that case the pendulous or hinged wards 47 are placed on the opposite side of the'end plate 74 and are employed to close the slots 48, as in the previous case, but with this difference that they are moved or swung laterally by the tappets 41 on the stems of the keys 21. These pendulous wards, as previously explained, abutting one against the other, act on a ratchet-wheel 49 by means of a pawl 50, attached to the end ward 47, as indicated by dotted lines in Fig. VIII, so that when either of the keys 21 is depressed the wards 47 are moved laterally, and the pawl 50 moves the ratchet-wheel '49 one tooth. Ratchetwheel 49 is loosely pivoted on 49. Attached to said wheel 49 is a fixed stop 51, resting normally against permanent stop or pin 51, fixed in plate 74. Holes 52 in plate 74 are set radially around ratchet -wheel 49 in the range of movement of stop 51 and so spaced that a pin52 can beset at various positions around the wheel 49, corresponding with the teeth thereon, and thus form a limit to the number of keys that can be depressed and the number of votes that can be given in that of=wheel 49 after it has been partially -revolved by the action of pawl 50. The ends of pawls 50 and '50 rest normally upon-wheel 49 and; are raised therefrom to allow the return of wheel 49 to normal position by means of projections 43 and 43 on angular pawl 43. Pawl 43 is pivoted at 43. Upon the operation of rod 9 point 43 thereof is forced out of groove 45, thus raising the'ends 43 and 43, and-consequently pawls 50 and 50, to a position clear of the teeth on ratchet-Wheel 49. It will be observed that the ends of the pawls 50 and 50" rest partially on the Wheel 49 and project partially over its edge, so that the ends 43 and 43 will when operated come in contact with and disengage said pawls from said ratchet-wheel, asaforesaid.

The sectional view for Fig. IX is taken through element 8in Fig. II, the one whereby the rods 11, 12, 13, and 14 are operated to vote forwa complete group or straight ticket of one party. The depressible keys 22 are sev-' erally connected with the oscillating rods 11, 12, 13, and 14 by means of the levers 53, mon nted on a fulcrum'at 54' and depressed by pins 55 in the stems 73 of the keys 22,'and are held down when depressed by the detaining or looking rod 9 and pawl 43 the same as in Fig. III and already described. On the faces of the oscillating rods 11, 12, 13, and 14 are attached cross-bars 62, having eyes to receive the'pins 63 on the links 64 66, as shown in Figs. X and XI, shorter pins 65 on the same I links engaging the lever 53, as seen in Figs.

IX and XII, except in the case of rod 12,

' which requires only a pin.65, projecting into date the arc of movement.

a slotted hole 75 in the lever 53, to accommo- In this manner the four keys 22 and corresponding levers 53 are severallyconnected with or engage the four oscillating rods 11 12 13 '14, and these'rods in turn each engage certain of the sliding bars 39, as seen in Fig. III, each rod operating one group of counters for the candidates of a certain party, as before explained. -When one of the keys 22 is depressed with a corresponding lever 53, the pawl 43 engages in the groove of the rod 9, holding the lever 53 down, the

key 22 rising again automatically by means of the coil-spring 67. As the lever 53 descends it passes between the hinged disks or wards 68, (seen in front view at Fig. XIIL) swinging these to the right or left and closing the others being locked bythe wards 68.

' and the rod 10 is thus turned so its flat face will stand at the angle as shown by dotted lines in Figs. III and VII, and in that position prevents any of the keys 21 from being depressed after the voter has registered for -6, or 7. (Seen in Fig. II.)

the remainder of the candidates in the party of his preference by keys 22. When the levers 53 are released by the rod 9 and the pawls 43, they are raised and reset by the coil-spring 72, the wards 68 falling back to the position seen in Fig. XIII.

From descriptionthus far given it will be seen that by turning the rod 9, operated by the entering-door 3 in the booth 1, that all the levers 37 and 53, the sliding bars 39, with their connected accessories, will resume their first or normal posit-ion, ready for the cycle of operations that have been described.

To render the method of voting and the op eration' of the mechanism more clear, I will 'HOW- follow through the whole, explaining how an elector will cast and register his votes. First he or an officer in charge will open the.

door 3, which, as hereinbefore explained, will set all the various elements-of the machinery in proper position for a new vote. -If the elector wants to vote a straight ticket-that is, for a complete group of candidates of one party-he passes by the keys 2land presses down one of the keys 22 opposite to the name of the party of his choice, as seen inFig. II. This turns one of the rods 11, 12, 13, or 14, as the case may be, and by acting on certain of the slides 39 registers one vote for each candidate of this particular party in the elements 5, No other of the keys 22 can be depressed by reason of the wards 68,

and the elector can thus yote for but one party. At the same time by depressing either of the keys 22 he locks all the keys 21 by means of the oscillating rod 10. If, however, the elector does not want to vote a straight or complete ticket for one party, he stops before the elements 5, 6, or 7 and presses down one of the keys 21 'for some candidateof his choice in another group or party, counting one vote for the same, and by means of the angular stop-bar 42 depresses all the pawls 38 in that element or for the group'of candidates for that office, cutting out connection between that group and'the keys 22. Then the Voter proceeds to the keys 22 and votes for the party of his choice, except for the substituted candidate previously voted for and cut out by the keys 21. the votes given will be registered with absolute certainty. 1

Among the results attained by the use of this machine are the following: The votes will be registered simultaneously with the indication of the electorspreference of candidates. The total number of votes cast for each candidate are shown. The manner of operating the machine is so simple that the process is at once apparent to the elector. The balloting is conducted with the utmost secrecy and without the liability of interference or intimidation of the elector, thereby conducing to the purity of elections. The elector is prevented from identifying the votes cast by him to interested parties or to persons desiring to fraudulently influence voters. In

In this manner it will be seen that this way an honest vote may he had and the purity of elections conserved. An elector cannot vote for a candidate more than once nor fortwo candidates for the same oflice; but an elector may vote for two candidates or for any predetermined number of candidates where the law contemplates he may so do, and a straight ticket may be voted by the operation of a single key. A split ticket may be voted in which a portion of the votes may be registered through the medium of the indi vidual-candidate keys and a portion by a ticket-key, the votes being properly accumulated upon the counters of the candidates, respectively, for whom they were cast.

Having thus described the nature and objects of my invention, I clairn 1. In a vote-recording machine, means for resetting the mechanism, said means comprising a grooved rod, said rod adapted to release or reset the operated parts; a latch-bar connected with said rod to impart movement thereto, said latch-bar adapted to be tripped after being moved apredetermined distance, substantially as described.

2. In a voting apparatus, sections or units placed in series, one section having a series of straight-ticket keys, other sections having a series of candidate-keys and counters; fiatted oscillating rods traversing said sections, said rods operated by the straight-ticket keys and acting on said counters; means independent of said rods, controlled by the candidate-key and acting on said counters, whereby votes may be cast for individual candidates without affecting the straight-ticket mechanism, substantially as specified.

3. In a voting apparatus, a series of sections; said sections provided with counters; respective individual-candidate keys for operating said counters; a straight-ticket section; said section provided with keys for operating such of said counters as were not cut out by substitution by said individual-candidate keys.

4. In a voting apparatus, sections or units placed in series, each provided with depressible voting-keys and counters, one section comprising straight-ticket keys, other sections comprising keys and counters for individual candidates or measures, liatted oscillating rods passing through all the sections, each rod operated upon by a straight-ticket key, said rods operating the aforesaid counters, and independent means for operating said counters controlled by the individual-candidate keys; in combination therewith, a rod passing underneath the individ rial-candidate keys and the levers of the straight-ticket section, so that when said levers are operated the individual-candidate keys will become locked against operation.

5. In a voting apparatus, a series of individual-candidate sections, each provided with keys, levers and counters, a straight-ticket section provided with keys and levers, oscillating rods traversing all said sections and operated by said straight-ticket keys, one of said rods locking the individuahcandidate keys and the remainder of said rods operating counters, means independent of said oscillating rods operated by the individual-candidate keys and operating the said counters, and a series of pendulous disks or wards abutting against each other and movable laterally, in combination with the keys and levers of the several sections, whereby when one lever is depressed all the others in the series are obstructed against depression.

6. In a voting apparatus, a series of individual-candidate sections, each provided with keys, levers and counters, a straight-ticket section provided with keys and levers, flatted oscillating rods traversing'all sections and 0p erated by the straight-ticket keys, said rods operating the aforesaid counters, means independent of said oscillating rods operated by the individual-candidate keys and operating the said counters, and in combination therewith, a series of pendulous pivoted disks abutting against each other and movable laterally, and a pawl and ratchet-wheel actuated by the last disk of the series and a pinstop for limiting the number of movements made by the pendulous wards and consequently the number of movements of the voting-keys.

7. In a voting apparatus, a series of sections; said sections provided with counters; respective individual-candidate keys for operating said counters; a straight-ticket sec tion, said section provided with keys for operating such of said counters as were not previously out out by substitution by said individual-candidate keys; and a rod to release all levers operated.

8. In a voting apparatus, units or sections; said sections provided with voting keys; traversing said sections a rod so placed that when turned it will obstruct or look all said keys whether or not any of said keys were operated.

9. In a voting apparatus, sections or units placed in series, each provided with votingkeys, levers and counters, oscillating rods passing through all sections, but operated upon by the keys and levers of one section only, one of said rods locking the depressible keys of the other sections, mechanism for operating the counters by the movement of the oscillating rods, and independent means for operating the said counters by the movement of the depressible keys of the other sections prior to the operation of said locking-rod, sub stantially as specified.

10. In a voting apparatus, sections or units placed in series each provided with depressible voting-keys, levers and counters, the said sections bearing the names of the individual candidates, mechanism between the keys and counters for operating said counters, and means for locking the said levers when once operated until released by the resetting mechanism, a straight-ticket section provided with keys, levers and bearing the names of the several parties to be voted for in straight ticket, independent mechanism, between the keys of the straight-ticket section and the counters in the individual-candidate sections, for operating the counters for all the candidates of said straight ticket not previously locked out.

11. In a voting apparatus, individual-candidate sections or units placed in series, each provided with depressible keys, levers, counters and bearing the names of individ ual candidates or me'asures,one section provided with keys, levers and bearing the names of the parties to be voted for in straight ticket, oscillating-rods traversing all the sections but operated only by the keys of the straight-ticket section, independent means for operating the counters by the keys of the individual-candidate sections, means for locking the individual-candidate key-levers after one operation until all are reset by the resetting mechanism, means for locking all the keys of the individual-candidate sections against operation after a straight-ticket key has been operated, until reset, whether any of said individual-candidate keys were or were not pre-' viously operated.

12. In a voting apparatus,a series of straightticket keys, a series of individual-candidate keys, depressible levers corresponding to the r individual-candidate keys, bell-cranks operregister by means of the straight-ticket keys,

substantially as specified.

13. In a voting apparatus, sectionsor units placed in series, each provided with depressible voting-keys, levers and counters, one seetion bearing straight-ticket names, other sections bearing individual-candidate names, rods traversing all the sections for operating the counters therein, but operated only by the keys of the straight-ticket section, independcut-means for operating the counters by the keys of the individual-candidate sections, means for locking the individual-candidate key-levers after one operation until all are re,- set, means for looking all the keys of the individual candidates against operation after a straight-ticket key has been operated,whether prior or subsequent-to the operation of one ormore individual-candidate keys, means for preventing the operation of the counter, by a straight-ticket key, for any individual candidate whose keyhas been previously operated.

14. In a voting apparatus, the series of depressible keys 21, key-levers 37, with mechanism for acting on the counters, and the series of depressible keys 22, key-levers 53, oscillating bars 11, 12, 13, and 14, pawls 88, sliding bars 39, with mechanism for operating on the counters, incombination with the angular stop-bar 42, wliereby the said sliding bars are cut out from operation on the counters by the depression of individual-candidate keys 21, substantially as specified.

15. In a voting apparatus, a series of individual-candidate keys; a series of straightticket keys; a bar cooperating with said straight-ticketkeys to lock the individualcandidate keys whether previously operated or not.

16. In a voting apparatus, the system of keys and counters, as herein described, a continuous grooved rod 9 that locks all the voting keys which an elector has voted, a crank and sliding bar 27 to operate this rod, said sliding bar made angular at its end so as to disengage 7 after moving a predetermined distance,-substautially as described.

17. A series of levers, a series of interrupting-disks abutting against each other except the two that are separated by the depression of a lever, means to prevent voting more than once forv the same candidate, and means to lock said levers against operation whether or not any lever of the series was operated.

18. The combination of a series of individual-candidate sections, each section comprising keys,levers,disks and counters; a straightticket section comprising keys, levers for operating the said counters, and disks; the said disks hung pendulous in the range of movef ment of the said levers so that when a lever I is depressed said disks will be thrust laterally locking all un operated levers of the series,and

a rod passing underneath the iudividual-candidate keys, which, when partially revolved when a tappet is depressed said disks will be thrust laterally to prevent the operation of more than one tappet at a time; means cooperating to limit or predetermine the number of times said tappets may be operated; means to detain all levers operated in their depressed condition until reset.

20. In a voting apparatus, an individualcandidate counter, means to operate said counter; additional means whereby said counter may be operated by either of two or more straight-ticket keys; in combination with a bar (as 42) for the purposes described.

21. In a voting apparatus, a series of sections, each provided with keys, levers and counters, a fiatted locking-rod traversing all sections and so placed that when rocked it will lock all said keys subsequent to the operation of one or more of said keys.

22. In a voting apparatus, a series of sections, each provided with depressible votingkeys, voting-numbers, names of respective candidates and corresponding counters; a straight-ticket section provided with names of parties and respective keys; ilatted oscillating rods passing through all sections, each rod, respectively, operated by one of the said straight-ticket keys and operating the counters, in the individual-candidate sections, of the candidates composing the party ticket corresponding to the operated straight-ticket key; independent means controlled by the individuabcandidate keys for operating said counters; in combination therewith a series of links, varied in length, connecting said levers with said rods, except one which is connected directly, the lever being slotted to accommodate the arc of movement.

23. In a voting-machine, two or more series of counters; individual-candidate keys for operating said counters irrespective of party; straight-ticket keys, rods operated by their respective ticket-keys to operate said counters in any of the series not operated by an individual-candidate key.

24:. A series of straight-ticket levers, means for detaining the said levers, when operated, until reset, a series of interrupting-disks to prevent the operation of more than one lever of the series, a locking-rod operated by said levers, whereby the operation of a straightticket lever will lock the entire machine against further voting.

25. The combination of a series of individual-candidate keys for operating respective counters, a series of straight-ticket keys and levers for operating the same counters, an oscillating rod passing beneath all the individual-candidate keys and straight-ticket levers, a projection (as 71) in said levers, act-.

ing on said rod so that simultaneously with the operation of any of the straight-ticket keys, the said rod will lock all the individualcandidate keys against operation, Whether said individrial-candidate keys were operated or not.

26. A series of individrial-candidate keys for operating respective counters, a series of straight-ticket keys and levers for operating the same counters, an oscillating rod passing beneath all the individual-candidate keys and straight-ticket levers, a projection (as 71) on said levers acting on said rod so that synchronously with the operation of any of the straigh t-ticket keys the said rod will lock all the individual-candidate keys against operation; in combination with means for detaining said straight-ticket levers in a depressed condition after operation, a series of hinged Wards partiallyin the range of movement of said straight-ticket levers, whereby, When any one of said levers is depressed the said disks or Wards Will be thrust laterally therebylocking the unoperated levers against operation.

27. A series of individual-candidate keys for operating respective counters, a series of straight-ticket keys and levers for operating the same counters, an oscillating rod passing beneath all the individual -candidatc keys and straight-ticket levers, a projection (as 71) on said levers acting on said rod so that simultaneously with the operation of any of the straight-ticket keys the said rod will lock all the individual-candidate keys against operation, means for detaining the operated straight-ticket lever in a depressed condition, after operation, until reset; a series ofhinged disks or Wards partially in the range of movement of said straight-ticket levers, to lock the nnoperated levers against depression, in combination with a rod indirectly connected with and partially turned by the opening of the entrance door of the room or booth, said rod unlocking the detents, thereby allowing the levers to resume their normal position.

28. In a voting apparatus, a deflected sliding bar 27, crank 26 and continuous lockingrod 9 that liberates or readjusts the voting mechanism after each elector has voted, substantially as described.

29. In a voting-machine two or more series ofcounters; individnal-candidate keys for operating said counters; straight-ticket keys; rods operated by respective ticket-keys to operate said counters in any of the series not 0perated by said individual-candidate keys.

30. I11 combination with a voting-machine, an entrance-door; means for resetting the mechanism actuated by said entrance-door; means for voting for individual candidates irrespective of party; means for voting the remainder of any party-ticket by the opera tion of a single key.

31, In a voting-machine, an entrance-door and means for resetting the voting mechanism actuated by the said entrance door; means for voting for individual candidates irrespective of party; means for limiting or predetermining the numberof candidates that may be voted for in an office; means for voting the remainder of any party-ticket and locking the machine against further voting by the operation of a single key.

32. In a voting-machine, an entrance-door and means for resetting the voting mechanism actuated by said entrance-door; means to prevent voting for more than one candidate in an office; means for voting for individual candidates irespective of party; means for voting the remainder of any party-ticket and simultaneously locking the machine against further voting by the operation ofasingle key.

A series of oscillating rods (as 11, 12, 13, and 14,) each provided with an adjustable cross-bar (as 62), levers (as 53), connected respectively with said rods by links (as 64 and 66), said levers provided with projections (as 71), which actuates a face-plate or bar (as on rod (as 10), whereby the operation of any of the levers the said rod (as 10) will be 0scillated or rocked simultaneously with the 0s cillation of said rods 11, 12, 13 or 14-, accordingly as the lover of said rods, respectively,

is operated,

34. Aseries of oscillating rods, transversely therewith a series of sliding bars provided with springs or flexible pawls, lugs on said sliding bars staggered in position to engage with said rods respectively, and means for holding said pawls in a disengaged position.

35. A series of oscillating rods, transversely therewith a series of sliding bars provided with lugs staggered thereon to engage with said rods as the exigency mayrequire; a locking-rod, and means for rocking said lockingrod simultaneously with the operation of said oscillating rods.

36. Aseries of levers,-means cooperating to detain said levers when depressed; a series of pendulous disks abutting one against the other except the two that are separated by the depression of a lever, so as to lock the unoperated levers against depression; a bellcrank adapted to be operated either by individual-candidate levers or by straight-ticket levers. I

37. A series of individual-candidate levers with means for detaining said levers, when operated, in a depressed condition until reset, a frame or wall with slots in which said levers project, said slots forming a guide for and limiting the range of movement of said levers, disks hung pendulous from said wall, and in the range of movement of said levers, a series of interrupting-disks cooperating to prevent the depression of more than one lever of the series, and bell-cranks operable either by said levers or by straight-ticket keylevers and connecting accessories.

38. A lever connected with a rod for operating individual-candidate counters, said lever provided with'a slotted hole to accommodate the arc of movement, means on said lever, comprising a projection thereon as described, to impart movement to a rod for locking the individual-candidate keys.

39. A series of rods; levers for operating said rods; links varied in length connecting said rods with said levers; said levers provided with means to impart movement to a locking-rod. v

40. A series of rods; levers for operating said rods; links varied in length connecting said rods and levers; pendants to prevent the operation of more than one of said levers.

41. In a voting-machine,a series of individual-candidate counters with corresponding keys for operating the same; a series of straight-ticket keys for operating said coun ters; means whereby two or more of said straight-ticket keys may be connected with and operate any one of said individual-candidate counters; in combination with means to prevent the operation of said counters more than once or more than one of the serles.

42. In a voting-machine, means for voting for individual candidates irrespective of party; means for voting the unvoted portion of any straight ticket by the operation of a straight-ticket key; and means for voting for an individual candidate by either of two or more straight-ticket keys.

43. In a voting-machine, means for voting for individual candidates irrespective of party; means for voting the unvoted portion of any straight ticket by the operation of a straight ticket key; means for voting a straight ticket by said key; means for voting for an individual candidate by either of two or more straight-ticket keys.

- 44. In a voting-machine, means for resetting the mechanism; means for voting for individual candidates irrespective of party;

means for voting the unvoted portion of any straight ticket by the operation of a straightticket key; means for voting for an individual candidate byeitherof two ormorestraightticket keys.

45. In a voting-machine, two or more series of counters; individual-candidate keys for operating the same irrespective of party, a faceplate or ballot containing the names of candidates and respective voting-numbers spaced in harmony with said keys and counters;

straight-ticket keys to operate said counters in any of the series not previously operated by an individual-candidate key; levers, operated by straight-ticket keys, with projections (as 71) thereon to impart movement to a means for locking said individual candidate keys whether previously operated or not; means to parts; and a latch-bar to impart movement to said rod,said latch-bar adapted to be tripped after being moved a predetermined distance.

47. In a voting-machine, a series of individual-candidate counters with keys for operating the same; a face-plate or ballot containing the names of candidates, and spaced in harmony with said keys and counters; voting-numbers to identify said keys and counters with said names; a separate series of straight-ticket keys to operate said counters; a bar to cut out connection between said counters and said straight'ticket keys.

48. A series of levers connected with respective rods, said rods adapted to operate the counters of individual candidates comprising straight-party tickets; a bar to cut ently of said individual-candidate keys; said levers provided with means to impart movement to a locking-rod.

50. A series of sections, each containing a series of levers; pendants to prevent the operation of more than one lever at a time, a rod adapted to release the levers operated,

said rod suitably connected with and adaptedto be operated by a latch-bar, said latch-bar so deflected as to trip after being moved a predetermined distance.

51. In a voting apparatus, means for rearranging for elections comprising a series of interchangeable sections, one for each oflice, each section containing counters and means for actuating the same of a number to correspond with the number of candidates for each oflice; a fixed straight-ticket section containing rods for operating said counters; said interchangeable sections provided with lugs whereby the counters contained therein may be operated by said rods.

52. A series of levers connected with rods for operating the counters of candidates comprising straight party-tickets; said levers provided with means to impart movement to a locking-rod; pendants to prevent the operation of more than one lever at a time.

53. A series of interchangeable sections containing means for voting for individual candidates irrespective of party,a straight-ticket section containing means for voting the remainder of any party-ticket not locked out by substitution, and the means to maintain said sections in their proper position.

54:. A series of independent sections containing means for voting for individual can didates irrespective of party; a frame or support on which to rest said sections connected with a section having keys for voting the remainder of any party-ticket.

55. The means for rearranging for elections comprising the operative elements for the candidates of each office disposed in independent and interchangeable sections; and a section containing means for operating said elements in all sections not previously operated or locked out by substitution; means to maintain said sections in their proper operative position.

56. A voting-machine capable of being rearranged to meet the requirements of succeeding elections, comprising a series of interchangeable individual-candidate sections, each section containing counters and keys for actuating the same; a straight-ticket section with keys for operating said counters; a rod for locking the individual-candidate keys; and a face-plate or ballot containing the names of the candidates with voting-numbers adjacent, with or without the party designation, with or without names designating straight tickets, said faceplate or ballot spaced in harmony with said keys.

57. In a voting apparatus, a series of interchangeable sections, one for each office, each section containing individrial-candidate keys, counters and names of candidates with voting-numbers adjacent; traversing these sections a series of rods for operating said counters independently of said individualcandidate keys; a rod for locking said keys against operation whether prior or subsequent to the operation of one or more of said keys; means for maintaining said sections in their proper position.

58. In a voting apparatus, a series of interchangeable sections, one for each ofiice, each section containing individual-candidate keys, counters and names of candidates with voting-numbers adjacent; traversing said sections a series of rods for operating said counters independently of said individualcandidate keys; a rod for locking said keys against operation whether priororsubsequent to the operation of one or more of said,keys; means to limit or predetermine the number of candidates that may be voted for in an office; means for maintaining said sections in their proper position.

59. In a voting apparatus, a series of interchangeable sections, one for each office, each section containing individual-candidate keys, counters and names of candidates with voting-numbers adjacent; traversing said sections a series of rods for operating said counters independently of said individual-candidate keys; a rod for locking said keys against operation whether prior or subsequent to the operation of one or more of said keys; means to prevent voting for more than one candidate in an oflice; means to prevent voting for a candidate more than once; means for maintaining said sections in their proper position.

I 60. In a voting apparatus, a bell-crank for operating an individual-candidate counter, said bell-crank operable by an individualcandidate key, or by a straight-ticket key, each independently of the other.

61. A series of bell-cranks for operating corresponding counters, said bell-cranks operable by respective individual candidate keys and by respective straight ticket keys, each independently of theother.

62. A series of bell-cranks for operating corresponding counters, said bell-cranks operable by respective individualcandidate keys or by either of two or more straightticket keys, in combination therewith means to prevent the operation of any of said bellcranks-more than once or of more than one thereof.

63. A series of interchangeable sections, each section containing a series of individualcandidate keys, a straight-ticket section containin g a series of keys and means for retaining said interchangeable sections in their proper position; traversing all sections a rod for locking said individual-candidate keys simultaneously with the operation of any of said straight-ticket keys.

64:. In a voting-machine, a series of individual-candidate keys, a series of straighttickct keys, means to prevent the operation of a straight-ticket key and an individualcandidate key at the same time, said means comprising a rocking rod and a straight-ticket key-lever with a projection thereon adapted to impart movement tosaid rod.

. 65. A series of counters individual-candidate keys for operating said counters, a series of straight-ticket keys and levers for operating said'counters, a rod passing beneath all the individ ual-candidate keys and straightticket levers, the latter havinga projection thereon to impart movement to said rod, there- I by looking all individual-candidate,keys.

66. A series or levers, means cooperating to detain' said levers when depressed, aseries of pendulous disks abutting one against the other except the two that areseparated-by the depression of -.a lever, so; as to lock the unoperated'leversagainst depression; belltion's, each containing individual-candidate.

. votingnumbersadjacent; co'rrespondingwith 3,

cranks actuatedbyindividual candidate keys and connecting mechanism orstraight-ticket keys and connecting mechanism, a stop-"bar actuated by the individual -.candidate -keylevers to maintain thc straight-ticket mechanism in adisengaged position. 1

67. In a voting apparatus,a series of sec keys, 'co'unters'and names of candidates with said keys a series or bell-cranks adapted to operate said counters by the operation of said keys; through these sections rods for operatingsaidbell-cranks, and-consequently said counters, independently of'said individuaL.

candidate keys." l

68. Aseriesof bell-cranks individuatcandidate keys for operating said bell-cranks;

straight-ticket keys for operating said bellcranksymeans' to prevent the-operation of more than one of the bell-cranks of the series by any of saidkeys, said-- means comprising a series of disks or wards to prevent the operation. of more than one individual-candidate key,-and a bar to cut out allsaid straight:

ticket keys; or, said means'comprising disks or wards toprevent the operation of more than one straight-ticket key and a rod or bar adapted to lock all the individual-candidate keys.

of the series, accordingly as the individualcandidate key or the straight-ticket key is first operated. i

69. A series of bell-cranks operable either by individual-candidate key-levers or by straight-ticket key-levers; a bar as described to prevent the operation of any bell-crank of the series bysaid straight-ticket key-levers subsequent to the operation of any one thereof by said individual-candidate key-levers.

70. In a Voting apparatus, an individual counter meansjto operate said individuahcanvdidate'counter; additional means whereby said counter may be operated by either of two or more straight-ticket keys.

71. In a voting-machine, individual-candidate counters; respective keys for operating said counters; straight-ticket keys for oper atin g said counters; means to prevent the operation of any of said counters more than once by said keys. a

V 72. In a votingrmachine, a cover to conceal and protect the mechanism; candidate-counters; respective individual-candidate 'keys for operating said counters; Voting-numbers to identify said keys with said counters;

straight-ticket keys to operate said countersindependently of said individual-candidate keys. q

7 3. In a voting-machine; candidate-coum ters; respective individ rial-candidate keys for operating said counters; vOtIng-numberstO identify said keys "and counters; straight-' ticket keys for operating saidcounte rs independently of said individual-candidate keys.

'74. In a vote-recordingmachine, means for resetting the mechanism, comprising a' rod adaptedto releaseor reset-the operated parts;

connected with said rod a deflectedlatch-bar;

latch-bar when moved a predetermined distance; meansto impart movement to said latch-bar, substantially as described. I

In a voting-machine, a series-of conna guide for said latch-bar soset as to trip saidl ters; individualrca'ndidate keys to operate said counters; straight-ticket keys to operate said counters; abar operated by said individ ual-oandidate keys to prevent the operation of said counters by any of said straight-ticket keys when operated. V

76. In a votinganttchine, a series of counters; .individual-candidate keys to operate IOO said counters; straight-ticket keys to operate. said counters independentlybf said vindi- I vidual-candidatekeys; a bar operated by said individual-candidate keys topreventthe op eration of said counters by any :of said straight-ticket keys when operated. I

77. In a voting-machine, a series of coun-- I ters; individual-candidate keys to operate said counters; straight-ticket keys tooperate said counters; a bar operated by said ,indi vidual-candidate keys to'pre'vent the opera- I,

tion of said counters by any of said straightticket keys when operated; a rod cooperating with said straight-ticket keys to locksaid individual-candidate keys. f

78. vIn a voting-machine, a series of counters; individual-candidate keys; tooperate said counters; voting-numbers to identify said keys and counters; straight-ticket keys to operate said counters; abar, operated by said individual-candidate keys, toprevent the operation of said counters by any of said straight-ticket keys when operated.

79. In a voting-machine, a series of counters; individual-candidate keys to operate said counters; voting-numbers to identify said keys with said counters; straight-ticket keys to operate said counters independently of said individual-candidate keys; abar operated by saidindividual-candidate keys'to prevent the operation of said counters by any of said straight-ticket keys when operated.

80. Ina voting-machine,keys for voting for individual candidates irrespective of party; 7

means, independent of said keys, for voting the remainder of any party-ticket.

81. In avoting-machine, keys for voting for individual candidates irrespective of party; means independent of said keys, for voting the remainder of any party-ticket at a single operation.

82. In a voting-machine, a series of rods; transversely therewith a series of sliding bars; said bars provided with lugs, said lugs staggered on said bars to engage with said rods as the exigency may require; flexible pawls on said bars; a bar to depress said pawls.

83. In a voting-machine, segregable sections; said sections containing keys for voting for individual candidates irrespective of party; means, independent of said keys, for voting the remainder of any party-ticket.

84. In a voting-machine, a series of individual-candidate sections, comprising keys and levers for operating respective counters; a straight-ticket section provided with keys and levers for operating said counters; traversing said sections an oscillating rod adapted to release all levers operated; in combination therewith a bar to prevent the operation of the counters, in an individual-candidate section wherein one of the counters has been operated by an individual-candidate key, by said straight-ticket keylevers.

85. In a voting-machine, means to operate an individual-candidate counter by either of two or more straight-ticket keys.

86. In a voting-machine, a series of counters; individualcandidate keys to operate said counters; means whereby any of said counters may be operated by either of two or more straight-ticket keys.

87. I11 a voting-machine, a series of individual-candidate keys; a rod for locking said keys against operation; a series of straightticket levers with projections thereon to impart movement to said rod; aseries of wards to prevent the operation of more than one of said levers at a time, substantially as described.

88. In a voting apparatus, a series of sections; said sections provided with counters; respective individual-candidate keys for operating said counters; a straight-ticket section; said section provided with keys for op erating such of said counters as may comprise a straight ticket, or the unvoted portion thereof,independently of said individualeandidate keys.

89. In a voting apparatus, a series of individual-candidate counters; respective individual-candidate keys to operate said counters; straight-ticket keys to operate said counters; means whereby said counters may be operated by either of two or more of said straightticket keys; in combination with means to prevent the operation of any of said counters more than once, or of more than one of the series, by any of said keys, substantially as described.

90. In a voting-machine, the means for voting a split ticket, comprising individual-candidate keys; ticket-keys; means cooperating with the inwardly portion of said keys whereby a portion of said split ticket may be voted by said candidate-keys and a portion of said split ticket may be voted by said ticket-keys.

91. In a voting-machine,a casing to contain the mechanism; individual-candidate counters; candidate-keys to operate said counters; ticket-keys to operate said counters, said keys operating partially within and partially without said casing and so projecting therefrom that said keys may be operated; mechanism cooperating with the inwardly portion of said keys whereby the whole or a portion of such of said counters as comprise a party-ticket may be operated by the operation of one of said ticket-keys. v

92. In avoting-machine,a casing to contain the mechanism; individual-candidate coun ters; candidate-keys to operate said counters; ticket-keys to operate said counters,said keys operating partially within and partially without said casing and so projecting therefrom that said keys may be operated; mechanism cooperating with the inwardly portion of said keys whereby the whole or a portion of such of said counters as comprise a party-ticket may be operated by the operation of one of said ticket-keys; mechanism toprevent vot: ing for a candidatemore than once.

93. In avoting -machine,acasing to contain the mechanism; individualcandidate counters; candidate-keys to operate said counters, said keys operating partially within and partially without said casing and so projecting therefrom that said keys may be operated; party-keys; mechanism cooperating with the inwardly portion of said keys whereby the whole or a portion of such of said counters as comprise a party-ticket may be operated by the operation of one of said ticket-keys; means to prevent voting for more than one candidate in an office.

94. In a voting-machine, a casing to con tain the mechanism; individual candidate counters; candidate-keys to operate said counters; ticket-keys to operate said counters, said keys operating partially within and partially without said casing and so projecting therefrom that said keys may be operated; mechanism cooperating with the inwardly portion of said keys whereby the whole or a portion of such of said counters as comprise a partyticket may be operated by the operation of one of said ticket-keys mechanism to limit or predetermine the number of candidates that may be voted for in an ofiice.

95. In a voting-machine, the means for voting a split ticket, comprising a casing, candidate-keys, ticket-keys, said keys partially pro-- jecting and partially within said casing, means, cooperating with the inwardly portion of said keys, whereby a portion of said split ticket may be voted by said candidate-keys and a portion thereof by said ticket-keys.

- portion of any party-ticket, not otherwise voted, ]oy the operation of one of said keys; said mechanism so disposed as to be operable only through the medium of said ticket-keys; means to prevent voting for a candidate more than once; means to prevent voting for more than one candidate in an ofiioe; means to limit or predetermine the number of candidates that may be voted for in an office; meansto reset the operated parts, substantially as described. 98. In a voting-machine, a casing; ticketkeys; said keys operating partially within and partially without said casing and so projecting therefrom that said" keys may be operated means codperating with the inwardly portion of said keys whereby the whole or a portion of a party-ticket may be voted by the operation of aticket-key;

99. In a voting-machine, ticket-keys; mechanism cooperating therewith whereby the whole or a portion of a'party-ticketmay be t voted by one of said keys means whereby a candidatemay be voted for by either of two or more of said'keys.

100. In a voting-machine, candidate-keys; ticket-keys; and mechanism so disposed as to prevent removal of the parts thereof cooperating with said keys, whereby a portion of a split ticket may be voted by said candidate-keys and a portion thereof by said ticket-keys.

101. In a' voting-machinmthe means for voting a split ticket, comprising counters for individual candidates; corresponding-keys, for operating said counters; ticket-keys for- 102. In a voting-machine, themeans for voting a split ticket, comprising a casing, canprojecting and partially within said casing, means cooperating'with the inwardly portion of said keys, whereby a straight ticket may be voted by said ticket-keys, or whereby a portion of said split ticket may be voted by a portion thereof by said candidate-keys and said ticket-keys.

In testimony whereof I- have hereunto affixed my signature in the presence of twowit 'nesses. 7

j A. J, BOLFING. -Witnesses: I

O. F. KARNS, JAMES L. KING.

55 (lidate-keys, ticket-keys, said keys partially 

